What is fetal growth restriction?
Fetal growth restriction is a condition where the fetus is smaller in size when compared to the ideal fetus size for that particular gestational age. It is also called IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction)
What causes restricted fetal growth?
There could be a lot of reasons why a fetal growth restriction occurs. It could be:
- Issue with the placenta. The placenta is the tissue that brings essential nutrients and oxygen to the fetus.
- Poor blood flow in the umbilical cord
- Mother having smoking, drug, or drinking habits
- Fetus having infections such as cytomegalovirus, rubella, etc.
- Mother has hypertension.
- Drugs like seizure medicines that aren’t approved by the gynaecologist
- Fetus with genetic or birth defects
- Mothers carried more than one baby (twins, triplets, etc.)
What are the symptoms of FGR?
A pregnant woman might not have symptoms of FGR pregnancy. But fetal growth restriction causes:
- Low fetal weight
- Low blood sugar levels
- Lower body temperature
- Abnormal increase in red blood cell count
- Inability to fight infections
What happens if a baby has fetal growth restrictions?
- Prolonged period of NICU care.
- long-term or even lifetime treatment, depending on the complications.
- Hypoglycemia and low sugar levels
- Immature lungs
How do you prevent fetal growth restrictions?
Fetal growth restriction can be prevented if taken properly.
- FGR pregnancy can be prevented if the mother isn’t exposed to any kind of smoking (be it first-hand or second-hand smoking), drug use, or alcohol.
- If the mother has seizures or other issues, ensure to consult both the gynaecologist and neurologists about the tablets prescribed.
- By not skipping any prenatal screening and by diagnosing FGR earlier
- Mother having a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and proper exercise routine
- Monitoring the steady weight gain of both the mother and the baby.
How can fetal growth restriction treatment be done?
There are a few things that can help in the betterment of FGR pregnancy.
- Mother having proper bed rest
- Mother having a well-nourished and balanced diet
- Mother taking proper supplements to nourish the baby
- Proper screening for monitoring the baby’s growth
Conclusion
FGR in pregnancy is one of the most stressful things to happen, but with proper treatment and care you will be able to manage it.
Many babies with FGR who receive proper care and treatment in the NICU turn out to be normal.
If you are looking to get any of the pregnancy scans done to monitor the health of your baby, Jammi scans could be the best option for you.
With experienced staff and well-equipped machines, Jammi Scan strives to provide the most accurate results possible. Consult with the best gynecologist and fetal medicine expert in Chennai Dr. Deepthi Jammi for women’s health issues.
Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans
FAQ:
1. Does stress cause fetal growth restrictions?
Studies have shown that mothers who experience extreme stress levels can develop FGR. It is important to manage your stress levels for the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
2. What is the survival rate for babies with IUGR?
The severity of the growth restriction, gestational age, and availability of specialized medical treatment are some of the variables that affect the survival rate of infants with IUGR. Neonatal medicine advancements have considerably increased the survival rates.
3. How can I improve my fetal growth restrictions?
To improve FGR,
- Have a proper, nutritious meal.
- Have a healthier lifestyle.
- Proper prenatal screening
- Quitting smoking or using drugs or alcohol
4. Can babies with fetal growth restrictions be normal?
Yes, most babies with fetal growth restrictions turn out to be normal if treated with proper care and provided with proper nutrition.
5. When do growth-restricted babies catch up?
FGR is usually detected during the first 20 weeks of gestation.
6. Should I be worried if my fetus is measuring small?
As long as the doctor approves, you don’t have to worry about it. When your baby is small for its gestational age, make sure to have a healthier lifestyle and take prenatal supplements.
